Smoked cheesy potatoes are a comforting dish that combines tender potatoes, creamy cheese, and a touch of smoky flavor. Plus, they’re super easy to make!
Honestly, who can resist cheesy goodness? I love serving these potatoes at BBQs; they always disappear fast! The best part? They’re great as leftovers (if there are any left!).
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are perfect for this dish due to their starchy texture. If you can’t find russet potatoes, you can use Yukon Golds, which will also give a creamy feel.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a robust flavor. If you’re low on cheddar, you might try a mix of mozzarella for stretchiness and pepper jack for a bit of heat.
Sour Cream: Sour cream adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a great low-fat alternative, providing a similar taste and texture.
Cream of Chicken Soup: If you prefer a plant-based option, try using cream of mushroom soup or a homemade cream sauce. Just adjust the flavors to balance the creamy taste.
Corn Flakes: Corn flakes provide crunch. If you want to avoid processed ingredients, crushed potato chips or panko breadcrumbs can work as alternatives.
How Do You Ensure the Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked and Creamy?
Getting the potatoes just right can be challenging. Here’s how to keep them creamy and ensure even cooking:
- Slice the potatoes thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and become tender faster.
- Mix the potatoes thoroughly with the other ingredients so they’re well coated. This ensures even flavor and moisture distribution.
- When smoking, keep the temperature steady at 225°F. If your smoker allows, use a water pan to create humidity, improving creaminess.
- Check the potatoes with a fork around the two-hour mark. They should be tender but not mushy. Enjoy that perfectly creamy texture!
How to Make Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potato Mixture:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thin
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For The Topping:
- 2 cups crushed corn flakes
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking time in the smoker. A total of about 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish, but the results will be oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Smoker:
Start by preheating your smoker to 225°F (107°C). This will give your cheesy potatoes that lovely smoky flavor as they cook.
2. Prepare the Potato Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, milk, chopped onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until nicely blended and ensure that the potatoes are all coated well.
3. Transfer to Baking Pan:
Take your potato mixture and pour it into a large aluminum baking pan or a casserole dish. Spread the mixture out evenly so that it cooks nicely throughout.
4. Make the Topping:
In a separate bowl, mix the crushed corn flakes with the melted butter. Stir well to make sure that all the corn flakes are coated in butter.
5. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the buttery corn flakes evenly over the top of the potato mixture, creating a crunchy topping that will add great texture.
6. Smoke the Potatoes:
Place the baking pan in the smoker and close the lid. Let it smoke for about 2 to 2.5 hours. Keep an eye on it; you want the potatoes to be tender and the top to turn golden brown and crispy.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once cooked, carefully remove the pan from the smoker and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This helps the flavors settle a bit. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a touch of color and freshness.
Enjoy your deliciously creamy and cheesy smoked potatoes! They make a fantastic side dish for any gathering!
## FAQs for Smoked Cheesy Potatoes
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with cheeses like Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just ensure the total amount of cheese remains around 1 cup for the right texture and flavor balance.
How Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the potato mixture a day in advance! Just combine everything in the mixing bowl, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before smoking to ensure even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover smoked cheesy potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Smoker?
Yes, you can! If you don’t have a smoker, bake the casserole in a conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and crispy. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to the potato mixture!
